If you’re looking for a nearby adventure that blends Colorado beauty with something for everyone, we can’t recommend Waterton Canyon enough. Just a short drive from Highlands Ranch and Littleton, this local gem has it all—hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife watching, or simply soaking up the views.
Why We Love It
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Hiking & Biking: The wide, well-maintained trail stretches about 6 miles to Strontia Springs Dam (12 miles round-trip). It’s perfect for walkers, joggers, families, and cyclists. Road bikes work well for the first stretch, while mountain bikers can push further into rugged terrain.
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Colorado Trail Access: Waterton Canyon is also the official starting point of the Colorado Trail—a legendary 486-mile path that winds all the way to Durango. Even if you’re not tackling the whole thing, you can branch off for more extreme hikes or challenging mountain bike rides into the backcountry.
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Fishing: The South Platte River runs alongside the trail, offering peaceful fishing spots—including an accessible pier about 1.3 miles in and additional areas further along.
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Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and a variety of birds. Waterton Canyon is famous for up-close sightings of Colorado’s incredible wildlife.
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Family Friendly to Extreme: Whether you want an easy riverside stroll or a big adventure linking into Roxborough State Park or the high country via the Colorado Trail, Waterton Canyon is the perfect launchpad.
Good to Know
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The trail is 12 miles round-trip if you go all the way to the dam.
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Expect about a couple hours hiking time if doing the full distance.
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Dogs aren’t allowed (to protect wildlife).
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Start early, bring water, and be ready for full sun exposure.
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Parking and restrooms are available at the trailhead.
Our take: Whether you want a morning ride, a family outing, or a true Colorado backcountry adventure, Waterton Canyon offers it all. It’s one of those places that reminds us why we love calling this state home.
If you head out there, we’d love to hear about your experience—or see your photos of the bighorn sheep!
